BORDERS youngsters who have big dreams and want to make a difference are invited to join a "life changing opportunity" with a "dynamic group of young people".

The group, to be formed of eight young people from the region, will oversee the way a £20,000 capital fund will be spent.

The Scottish Borders Youth Local Action Group (Y-LAG), with the guidance of YouthBorders will co-design a grant-making programme, with the aim of empowering other young people and community groups to set up exciting initiatives.

Those who are part of the group will have access to industry specialists in activism, leadership and enterprise – and they will have the chance to grow in confidence, meet new people, travel and have a positive impact on their communities.

Susan Hunter, chief officer at YouthBorders, said: “We are really excited to have been commissioned to deliver the Y-LAG project.

“It’s a great chance for young leaders to create and share their vision for the new fund.

"They will be in the driving seat to make decisions on £20,000 of capital funding to invest in community programmes here in the Borders.

"This is a one-of-a-kind voluntary opportunity, and we cannot wait to get started.”

Working with YouthBorders is something Zoë Daniel, a former participant with the group, says is something which helped her launch a successful career.

The recent university graduate said: “I found a great platform to help launch my career through projects supported by the YouthBorders team.

"The skills I gained led to travelling with the European Union Intellectual Property Office presenting my ideas on a national platform.

"I’ve become a regular producer and executive producer for the Children’s Media Conference and I was highlighted as one of The Young Women’s Movement 30 Under 30. I was also named by the Evening Standard as the ‘inspirational teenager you should follow on Instagram.

"YouthBorders gives young people a great platform to start launching successful careers. I’ve never looked back."

The Y-LAG is open to any young person that lives, works or studies in the Borders and is aged between 16 and 25.

YouthBorders is keen to applications from youngsters from a range of backgrounds, and additional support is available to young people to help with involvement in the project.

Although an advantage, previous experience in volunteering or leadership is not required.

A YouthBorders spokesperson said: "What is most important is energy, drive, and enthusiasm to create change.

"Places are limited and early statements of interest are encouraged."

Meetings of the Y-LAG will begin next month to develop its vision for the £20,000 ahead of the capital fund opening in January next year.

Expressions of interest in joining the Y-LAG should be made by Sunday (October 2).

For more information, visit the YouthBorders website, or contact YouthBorders' project and partnership coordinator Carly McAllan at: Carly@youthborders.org.uk or on 07713 279341.